The offseason is here. Actually, let’s rephrase that. The IMPROVEMENT season is here.

Everyone works from November to March. That means now is the separation season.

So, how are you going to separate yourself from your competition this year? Let’s look at a handful of ways to make this your best improvement season yet!

(One note - this assumes you are already doing the core elements that make up a successful spring and summer - working on your athleticism, working on your skill, and playing, whether it be AAU, in summer leagues with your team, or at camps. If you aren’t doing those things, start there!)

The Offseason Playbook: 5 Keys to Becoming a Better Basketball Player 

• Get a partner - individual workouts are great. They are a big part of your improvement. However, if you want to take your game to the next level, get a workout partner.

  There are a number of benefits to working out with a partner:

  • Increased accountability
  • The chemistry you build by working out with a teammate
  • The ability to do more things in your workouts, namely 1v1.

  The ideal partner is someone who is at your level, or maybe a little bit better. This ensures you will be challenged in everything you do. Think of a teammate or friend who meets that description and start working out together!

• Set a SMART goal - there is a lot of debate around the value of setting goals. While there are good arguments on both sides, goals do provide a vision. In the words of the Stoic philosopher, Seneca, “If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favorable.”

  “Getting better at basketball” is too general of a goal. SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound.

  It might be making 10,000 shots. It might be putting in 100 hours of ball handling. Whatever it is, having a goal gives you something to work towards. That can provide motivation when it otherwise might be lacking. 

  Post and track your progress. You’ll be amazed at the impact that has.

• Read & watch the game - there is no substitute for on court workouts. However, you can set yourself apart by studying the game.

  Read a biography of your favorite player. Read articles that we share with training tips. Watch NBA or WNBA players and really examine what makes them successful. There is a lot to be gained through reading and observation.

• Play with older players - we’ve covered this before. Playing pickup with older players is a great way to improve. You’ll learn to play more physically. Your IQ will improve. Your competitiveness will grow.

  Older people don’t care so much about looking good. They are playing because they want to win. Their experience gives them knowledge you can benefit from.

  Go find a pickup game and jump in. You’ll come back a tougher & smarter player.

• Pick up a hobby - in Steve Magness new book, Win The Inside Game, he talks about common qualities of elite athletes.

  One thing he found was that they tended to have hobbies outside their sport. These hobbies gave them a mental and physical break.

  While the idea of grinding endlessly is often glorified, it’s usually not the best path to lasting success. So take some breaks and do something else that you enjoy.

  It could be an instrument. It could be another sport (pickleball, anyone?). It could be chess or learning a 2nd language.

  It’s not really important what it is, as long as you enjoy it. The important thing is having something else that refreshes you.

  Ironically, by taking time away from the game, you’ll get more out of the time you put into it.

   

Now Is The Time To Go From Good To Great

If you’re taking the time to read this article, it’s obvious you care about the game. That’s huge - most players aren’t even doing this.

It’s also important that you have a sense of urgency about getting better. Some people look at the calendar and see that the season is still far off. This lulls them into thinking they can wait and put in time later.

The best players seize this moment. They know now is the time to make a leap. If you want that to be you, use these tips to your advantage. Come next season, you’ll be glad you did!

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